Artistes in Gujarat to pay tribute to Kishan Maharaj

Ahmedabad, May 8(IANS) As a tribute to tabla maestro Pandit Kishan Maharaj, who died in Varanasi May 4, the Saptak School of Music here will organise a gathering of artistes Friday, during which an archival recording of the legendary musician will be played.

'For me, Pandit Kishan Maharaj was like a loving grandfather. He taught me how to play the tabla,' said Hetal Mehta who teaches tabla at the institute.

Hetal said that when Saptak was started in October 1980, the first musical event held was a grand performance by Pandit Ravi Shankar and Kishan Maharaj.

Kishan Maharaj, who was awarded the Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, died at the age of 85 after a stroke.